Ever noticed your ears feeling fuller, itchier, or even blocked as you age? You’re not imagining it. As we grow older, changes in the ear canal can lead to an increase in earwax production—and in how it builds up. For many seniors, this isn’t just uncomfortable — it can lead to hearing issues, imbalance, and even social withdrawal.As aging and earwax production are completely linked with each other.
we’ll explore the science behind aging and earwax production , why it’s important to keep it in check, and how professional ear care (like microsuction) can bring clarity back — both in hearing and comfort.
🟢 What is Earwax and Why Do We Need It?
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It has several important jobs:
- Traps dust, debris & microbes to protect your ear
- Moisturises the ear canal, preventing dryness and irritation
- Self-cleans by slowly moving outward and carrying debris with it
So no — earwax isn’t dirty. But too much of it can be a problem, especially when your body’s natural processes slow down with age.
🔶 How Does Aging Affect Earwax Production?
As we age, several factors come into play:
1. Slower Skin Cell Renewal
The skin in the ear canal renews less efficiently. This means wax doesn’t get pushed out as easily, and can accumulate.
2. Thicker Hair in the Ears
Older adults often grow thicker or coarser hair inside the ear, which can trap wax and stop its natural exit.
3. Dryer Wax Consistency
Earwax tends to become drier and harder with age, making it more difficult to exit the canal — and more likely to cause blockages.
4. Changes in Gland Function
The ceruminous glands that produce earwax may become overactive or irregular in their secretion, especially if the ears are frequently cleaned with cotton swabs (which can cause irritation).
🟧 Symptoms of Earwax Buildup in Older Adults
Here’s what to watch for — especially if you or your loved one is 60+:
- Muffled hearing or feeling like you’re hearing through a tunnel
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Turning up the TV volume
- Irritability, frustration, or social withdrawal (due to hearing problems)
- Earache or itchiness
Many people mistake these symptoms for hearing loss, but in some cases, the problem is just a wax blockage.
🩺 Why Seniors Should Avoid DIY Cleaning
Using cotton buds or ear candles can push wax deeper and risk injury. This is especially dangerous for aging ears, which may be more sensitive or fragile.
Microsuction, the method used at Better Ears, is:
✅ Safe
✅ Camera-guided
✅ Painless
✅ Highly effective for hard or dry wax
✅ No water or syringing involved
👵🏽 Earwax Buildup & Cognitive Health: An Overlooked Link
Did you know?
Untreated hearing issues — even temporary blockages — have been linked to:
- 🚶♀️ Reduced mobility and balance
- 🧠 Cognitive decline in seniors
- 🤐 Increased risk of isolation and depression
So, something as simple as earwax buildup can have a huge ripple effect on your well-being.
🔄 How Often Should Older Adults Get Their Ears Checked?
Experts recommend that seniors:
- 🗓️ Get earwax checked every 6–12 months
- 👩⚕️ Book professional ear cleaning if they experience any symptoms
- ❗ Especially after illness, use of hearing aids, or medication changes
Regular check-ups can prevent sudden blockages, reduce discomfort, and improve quality of life.
🏡 Better Ears: Professional Care, Right at Home
At Better Ears, we specialise in caring for ears at every age — especially for those 60+. Whether it’s your first ear cleaning or part of regular maintenance, we make the experience:
- Convenient: Home or clinic visits
- Safe: Fully insured ear clinician
- Precise: Camera-assisted microsuction for peace of mind
- Comforting: Friendly, supportive service for all age groups
📌 Key Takeaways
- Earwax is essential — but buildup increases with age due to changes in skin, hair, and glands
- Symptoms like hearing loss, dizziness, and social withdrawal can be caused by wax, not permanent damage
- Avoid cotton buds — and opt for professional microsuction
- Better Ears offers gentle, effective care for older adults with safe, camera-guided techniques
📞 Ready to Hear Clearly Again?
Don’t let age-related earwax buildup dull your senses.
📍 Book your home or clinic appointment today
📞 Connect us at 0770 613 5883 or visit betterears.org
